Impoverished Long Island Seniors Receiving the Resources They Need

“We were informed sometime in October by the previous provider of the CSFP that they did not reapply and the program would then be closing effective December 1 on Long Island,” said Jessica Rosati of Long Island Cares.

Long Island Cares was not alone in their quest to help these seniors.

“When Stop & Shop learned that a lapse in government funding was putting seniors at risk, we asked Long Island Cares how we could help,” said Stefanie Shuman, External Communications Manager for Stop & Shop. “We brought our truck to one of Long Island Cares’ 30 senior meal sites and handed out the produce. From there, Long Island Cares took the rest of the produce donation and distributed it across the Island at their other senior meal sites.”

While everyone involved is putting forth their best efforts, this task will be one that never reaches an end. The previous CSFP provider served about 4,000 seniors across Long Island, which is a substantial amount for Long Island Cares to take on themselves.

There is also the concern over the lack of a long-term CSFP contract on Long Island. Until that is resolved however, Long Island Cares will continue to provide care for these seniors.

“Long Island Cares is hopeful that through our and the New York Common Pantry’s efforts and daily check-ins with the New York State Department of Health that a long term solution will be forthcoming. However, we are not certain yet as to what that will be,” Rosati said.

“There is a definite need on LI to support our seniors, and Long Island Cares will continue to advocate on their behalf until this need is met.”

Catholic Charities did not comment on the situation when contacted.

Long Island Cares will continue to help seniors throughout March, as they have 18 more food distributions planned.

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